COP26: Herschel Infrared chosen as the heating solution in zero carbon house project

We are thrilled to be part of a collaborative group, Beyond Zero Homes, that is showcasing a zero carbon home at the November COP26 Summit in Glasgow – to demonstrate how there are solutions available right now that will deliver a more sustainable future. The COP26 UN Climate Change Conference, attended by leaders from around the world, will be tackling the climate emergency and agreeing urgent actions required to secure net zero targets.

COP26House is a project designed by Roderick James Architects and taken forward by members of the construction industry who all share one mutual goal: to prove how beautiful, affordable, healthy and comfortable homes are achievable now, using ecologically responsible materials with minimal impact on the environment.

COP26House is a timber framed building that combines readily available, sustainable materials and technologies that deliver zero carbon impact in both construction and operation throughout the lifecycle of the building. The project goes further, going beyond zero, by ensuring affordability, comfort and design are all prioritised within the building.

The COP26House design ensures the house will run on small amounts of energy, its fabric first approach reducing the heat loss of the building to result in a minimal heat requirement.

Paul Morey, CEO at Herschel Infrared comments “We are very excited to be the chosen heating solution for the COP26House project. Our infrared heaters offer an energy efficient, simple to install and operate electric heating solution that achieves the core principles of Beyond Zero Homes, that of sustainability, comfort and affordability. With a low expectation for heat demand our highly controllable, slim-line infrared panel heaters offer the ideal choice for a zero carbon solution. Herschel heaters can be easily powered by renewable energy and the long lifetime, solid state technology is highly recyclable at end of life.

Our infrared panels also promote healthier living environments, minimising mould and dust circulation. Combined with a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery system the building has been designed to improve indoor air quality and comfort levels as well as offering a lower carbon footprint”.    

The COP26House is a one-bedroom design with mezzanine studio and an internal area of 70m2. At the end of the COP26 event, the house will be dismantled and rebuilt at a site near Aviemore along with a larger development of 12 affordable timber homes.

Next Steps

The zero carbon house build is progressing to plan on its site in central Glasgow. COP26House will be open to the public, situated within a short walk of Glasgow Central Station and the SEC. More details of Beyond Zero Homes and the 20+ partners involved in bringing this innovation example of future living, is available on here.

Real, affordable solutions to the climate emergency are readily available. Herschel Infrared and the other members of the project are looking forward to sharing their inspired design of sustainable, zero carbon building and living with the COP26 conference delegates and visitors.